BYD Sealion 5 vs KGM Torres
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BYD Sealion 5 starts from $33,990 before on-road costs, while the KGM Torres opens at $34,990. That makes the BYD Sealion 5 the more affordable entry point by $1,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $37,389 and $38,489 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BYD Sealion 5 by roughly $9,550 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the BYD Sealion 5 and KGM Torres hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BYD Sealion 5 packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 2 in the KGM Torres.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the BYD Sealion 5 and 7 in the KGM Torres.
Feature Showdown
The BYD Sealion 5 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, while the KGM Torres gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BYD Sealion 5 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the KGM Torres. The KGM Torres counters with Apple CarPlay and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BYD Sealion 5 uses a Plug-in Hybrid producing 156kW and 310Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.
The KGM Torres responds with a Turbo GDi making 120kW and 280Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11.8 seconds.
The BYD Sealion 5 has the clear power advantage at 156kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the BYD Sealion 5 is 4.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BYD Sealion 5 measures 4,738mm long on a 2,765mm wheelbase, 38mm longer than the KGM Torres at 4,700mm (2,700mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BYD Sealion 5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 400L in the BYD Sealion 5 and 455L in the KGM Torres, giving the KGM Torres a 55L advantage.
For towing, the KGM Torres leads with a 1,500kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.2m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $342/year for the BYD Sealion 5 and $2,252/year for the KGM Torres. That is a $1,910 annual difference in favour of the BYD Sealion 5.
Estimated annual total: $342 (BYD Sealion 5) vs $2,252 (KGM Torres). The BYD Sealion 5 saves you roughly $1,910 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Sealion 5) vs 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Torres). The KGM Torres has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD Sealion 5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the KGM Torres if: You need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BYD Sealion 5 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BYD Sealion 5 will save you roughly $1,910 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the KGM Torres has a clear edge. The KGM Torres adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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